Today, there are 836,000 people living with vision loss in Canada. Further there are 4.25 million Canadians who are living with some form of AMD, diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma or cataracts. And if left untreated, most of these people are at risk of developing significant vision loss.

Every year 43,800 Canadians lose their vision. Despite the fact that 75 per cent of vision loss is preventable, eye health is not top of mind among Canadians.

For the month of May we’re reminding Canadians that protection and prevention are keys to good eye health. Everyone should be sure to get regular eye exams because they are the best form of early detection and prevention.

Get involved and show your support for Vision Health Month by participating in the fun activities CNIB has in store.

Shades of Fun Day Get involved by throwing on your wackiest or coolest pair of shades to protect your eyes; then hold your own fun fundraisers – from a backyard charity BBQ to a pay-what-you-can karaoke contest. www.shadesoffunday.ca

Great Canadian Yoga Stretch Set up your personal “stretch goal” – like mastering a difficult pose or having perfect attendance at your yoga class all month. Then get your friends, family and coworkers to sponsor you, and work throughout the month to achieve your goal. www.greatcanadianyogastretch.ca

Vision Risk Assessments
You can learn more about your risk of developing age-related macular degeneration (AMD), cataracts, glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Vision Risk Assessments will be conducted at select Costco, Metro and Wal-mart locations near you.

Keywords: healthcare